‘Magical Nights of Lights’ When: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. through Jan. 1 Where: Lake Lanier Islands Resort, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway, Buford Admission: $40-$60 for vehicles up to nine passengers; $90 for capacity vans up to 19 passengers; $250 for buses Contact: 770-945-8787; www.lakelanierislands.com
It may be an annual event, but somehow Lake Lanier Islands Resort found a way to make its "Magical Nights of Lights" celebration bigger and brighter than ever before. The event at the resort — 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway in Buford — will be open nightly from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. through Jan. 1. Admission for passenger vehicles accommodating up to nine guests is $40 Monday through Thursday, except for Dec. 19-22 when it increases to $60. Weekend admission rates are also $60 for passenger vehicles. Admission is higher for larger vehicles. "We have lots of new things this year," said Katie Damato, the resort’s events and marketing coordinator. "(Among other things,) we have a few new light displays and an all new entertainment tent." The new, climate-controlled tent will feature a variety of free entertainment like strolling carolers, visits from Jingles the Christmas Elf and a production of "I Can’t Wait ‘Til Christmas." The resort has also made some improvements to the carnival in the Holiday Village, which is situated along the seven-mile driving tour of animated light displays around the island. The village will also include a bonfire for roasting marshmallows, pony rides, holiday shopping and a petting zoo. Kids should make sure to bring their wish lists because Santa will be there to listen to their requests and take pictures. Other new features for this year include nighttime canopy tours, a big-screen nativity show and a Coca-Cola Holiday Caravan. On Dec. 17 and 18, the celebration will include a visit from a Medieval Times knight and horse, who will be available for photos. As is tradition, the resort will host a Magical Nights of Lights buffet at Legacy Lodge and Conference Center from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. beginning Friday through the end of this month, including Christmas Eve and Christmas. The buffet will include soup, salads, carving stations and an array of desserts. Buffet prices range from $12.95 to $28.95, plus tax. Children younger than 7 eat for free. Kids will also have the opportunity to have breakfast with Santa at Legacy Lodge from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays and Sundays for the rest of December. Breakfast with Santa prices range from $7.95 to $15.95, plus tax